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IAM International President Brian Bryant has appointed Robert “Bob” Simoni as a Special Representative in the Western Territory, effective July 1, 2026. An experienced union leader, U.S. Navy veteran and longtime IAM member, Simoni brings a background in aircraft maintenance, organizing, collective bargaining and member representation to his new role.
Simoni began his union career in 1990 with Pratt & Whitney Aircraft, joining IAM Local 700 in Middletown, Conn., after serving in the U.S. Navy, where he gained experience in aircraft maintenance.
In 2005, Simoni moved with his wife and children from Connecticut to Las Vegas to pursue a business opportunity. Four years later, he began testing jet engines at Nellis Air Force Base, where he participated in a successful IAM organizing campaign.
Following the organizing victory, Simoni was elected to help negotiate the workforce’s first collective bargaining agreement. He went on to serve as chief shop steward and became a founding member of IAM Local SC 711, where members elected him president.
Simoni later served three years as a Western Territory Associate Organizer before becoming an IAM Business Representative for District 519, a position he held for five years. In July 2026, he accepted a position as a Special Representative for the Western Territory, beginning his new assignment on July 1.
“Bob brings valuable experience as a rank-and-file member, shop steward, local president, organizer and business representative,” said IAM Western Territory General Vice President Robert “Bobby” Martinez. “He knows the challenges working people face on the job and understands how to build strong union representation through organizing, effective negotiations and member involvement. His experience will be an asset as we continue to grow and strengthen the IAM across the West.”
Through his years of service, Simoni has gained experience at every level of union representation, from organizing workers and negotiating first contracts to advocating for members on the job. His appointment strengthens the IAM’s commitment to building worker power and ensuring members have a strong voice in the workplace.
